How to Get an Autism Diagnosis in South Dakota
State Regulation & Policy Notice
Rules change by state and year. Last verified April 23, 2026. Confirm eligibility, waitlists, and current application procedures with the linked state department or regional agency.
Quick Answer
A complete guide to autism evaluations in South Dakota, covering Birth to 3 early intervention, DSS DD services, and diagnostic centers including Sanford Children's Hospital in Sioux Falls.
- Last updated April 23, 2026.
- Primary topic: how to get autism diagnosis in South Dakota.
About this information
This educational guide is published by AutismHearts. It has not been independently clinically reviewed. Confirm important medical, legal, benefits, and education decisions with qualified professionals or official agencies.
Medical Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
If you're looking for how to get an autism diagnosis in South Dakota, Sanford Children's Hospital in Sioux Falls is the state's primary pediatric medical resource. South Dakota is one of the few states without a comprehensive autism insurance mandate, making Medicaid, school-based services, and the school evaluation pathway especially important for families.
How to Get an Autism Diagnosis in South Dakota: Your First Steps
Start with your child's pediatrician and request a referral. At the same time, contact the South Dakota Birth to 3 Program if your child is under age 3. Call 1-605-773-3678 to start. Free evaluations; no diagnosis required.
For children age 3 and older, contact your local school district. South Dakota districts must evaluate within 60 days of a written request at no cost.
Search diagnostic providers in South Dakota →
Choosing an Evaluation Center in South Dakota
- Sanford Children's Hospital (Sioux Falls): South Dakota's premier pediatric hospital; developmental-behavioral pediatrics program. 9–15 month waits.
- Avera McKennan Hospital (Sioux Falls): Strong alternative in Sioux Falls; good Medicaid access.
- Rapid City Regional Hospital / Monument Health (Rapid City): Primary hub for Western South Dakota; developmental pediatrics.
- Sanford USD Medical Center (Sioux Falls): Academic-affiliated program.
- Private Practice Psychologists: Very limited; concentrated in Sioux Falls and Rapid City.
- Telehealth: Important for rural South Dakota families; look for SD-licensed providers.
South Dakota-Specific Programs and Rights
South Dakota Birth to 3 Program — Ages 0–3: Call 1-605-773-3678. Free evaluations and services; no diagnosis required.
School District Evaluation — Ages 3–21: 60 days to complete at no cost.
DSS Division of Developmental Disabilities — All Ages South Dakota DSS provides HCBS:
- Home and Community-Based Services Waiver for DD: Community supports, residential services, and supported employment.
- Children's Special Health Services: Medical and support services for children with chronic conditions.
Contact SD DSS at 605-773-3165 to apply.
Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) — Age 14+: Vocational rehabilitation services.
South Dakota Insurance Note: South Dakota does not have a comprehensive autism insurance mandate. Families rely primarily on Medicaid (South Dakota Medicaid covers ABA for eligible children), school-based services under IDEA, and whatever their employer plan voluntarily covers. Review your specific plan carefully.